Overview

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of protection for your online accounts.  If you have an online account with 2FA enabled, then a hacker knowing your password simply isn't good enough.  The hacker will also need to complete an extra step to get logged in to your account.  Examples of these extra steps include the following:

• Entering a random code that a system texts or emails you
• Entering a random code generated by a third-party app
• Pressing a button on your smartphone

This extra layer of protection secures your account, just in case someone gets your password.  With 2FA, a hacker will need your 2FA method as well as your username and password to access your online account.  This is considerably more difficult on hackers. 

For users wanting to better secure their accounts, 2FA is at worst a minor inconvenience.  When you combine using 2FA with our other recommendations in our Certified Knowledge Worker Refresher Materials (such as keeping your software and devices up to date), then it is very unlikely (but not impossible) that your online accounts will be compromised.

2FA at UWF

UWF students and employees can secure their UWF Gmail accounts by using the Google Authenticator app.Google offers other 2FA methods as well.  Visit Google using Google 2-Step Verification to learn more.

Some UWF employees are also required to use Duo when attempting to access Banner and other secure systems.  Employees should visit Duo Two-Factor Authentication to learn more.

2FA with other online accounts

Please check the documentation for your other online accounts, to see if they offer 2FA.  Also know that some online accounts require that you use authentication apps such as Google Authenticator or Authy.  Please  Please contact those vendors directly , for your questions, comments, or concerns regarding non-UWF accounts.

Many companies within the following industries may offer 2FA to their users.  The various industries that provide 2FA include the following:

• banking and finance
• communication and email
• gaming
• retail
• social media
• transportation